Official Review: A Pebble That Floats by Imelda Lahoz Argel

[Ngozi Onyibor]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Pebble That Floats" by Imelda Lahoz Argel.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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A Pebble That Floats is a memoir written by Imelda Argel. Imelda enjoyed a happy and privileged childhood in a close-knit family in the Philippines. Following her parents' career path, she pursued and earned a law degree from the University of the Philippines. Leveraging on her brilliance and familial connections, she worked in some of the best law firms and corporate organizations in her country. Her career thrived; however, her love life was gloomy. Her luck changed, or so she thought when her friend Rene introduced her to his brother-in-law, Pablo. They got married after a few months of courtship and thus began the most tumultuous years of her life.

Even though most of Imelda’s experiences happened in the 1970s and 80s, I could relate to her story. The pressure to get and stay married, underplaying her achievements to maintain an acceptable level of humility, unfair treatment at work and hiding an abusive relationship are situations many women in this day and age still experience. Her simple and succinct writing style pulled me into the story. Her descriptions of the callous treatment meted out to her and their son by her husband annoyed me. His manipulative attempts to deny her and their son their rights after abusing her financially for years buttresses the sort of person he is.       

There is a lot to take away from Imelda's story, but I most admire her brilliance, tenacity, kindness, and work ethic. Life beat her down many times, but she never stayed down. After a marriage bad enough to crush anyone's spirit and self-esteem, she left her cushy life and career, took a leap of faith and moved to another continent. 

Adjusting to life in Australia with a child and fast depleting savings turned out to be more harrowing than she imagined. From her Filipino law degree not being recognized in Australia to demeaning interviews and unlawful dismissal from her job, she turned her life around with sheer determination and hard work. 

She actively promoted her culture and helped hundreds of Filipinos move to Australia as permanent residents through her business as an immigration expert and consultant. Her work and involvement in government facilitated the signing of many favourable treaties between the Australian and Philippines Government. 

Imelda's story is candid, straight to the point, inspiring, and thoroughly-edited. I can't fault any aspect of it, so I rate it 4 out of 4 stars. The personal and family pictures at the end of the book are like the rays of the sun after a rainy day. The book will appeal to fans of memoirs and inspirational stories.  



  

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A Pebble That Floats
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[Joan642]

Well done on the review. I think am starting to enjoy reading memoirs and this one looks like an exciting read. I think Imelda is a very strong woman.

[Saint Bruno]

I used to skip memoirs until I read one recently. I think this title would be worth the read. Thanks for the awesome review and recommendation.

[Kola+wole]

Imelda.... A name that will be associated with victors and not the vanquished despite the challenges and obstacles thrown her way. Exceptional review.

[SamaylaM]

I don't usually read memoirs but your review regarding this one seems very detailed. The description of A Pebble That Floats being candid and inspirational is also backed by your review. Thank you for such a great work!

[Ify_Reviewer]

Imalda's life seems to pass a lot of lessons. Nice review

[Gladys Chris mburu]

The title of the book is catchy while your review stands out.
I love how you describe Imelda and her struggles even with a law degree.

[Lisa A Rayburn]

Memoirs aren't my cup of tea, but it sounds like Imelda was an excellent example for her son. Her hard work and determination paid off not just for her but most probably taught him those traits by example. I love that she included pictures of them at the end. Thanks for the review!

[Harty Muli]

So disheartening to hear of a woman being mistreated because of her gender. I like the book highlights this problem. Nice review.

[Aan Granados]

I like reading memoirs, and this particular book appealed to me because she was from the Philippines. I am looking forward to reading her story. Thanks for your review.

[Amy+++]

I was blown away by this story. The author is a very strong woman and we need more people like her.

[Yvonne Monique]

I admire Imelda's strength and determination to carry on in spite of all the obstacles she encountered.

[ankushavhad]

What I see is the momoir of the author, Imelda looks inspiring journey of her life weaving in ups and downs she kept her vision optimistic. Great review, Michelle Fred. Thanks.

[Kennedy NC]

Women go through a lot in contemporary society especially as it relates to being single and the consequent pressure to get married. Great review.

[Asma Aisha Ansari]

It's so heartening to see that Imelda stood strong even during such tough and demanding circumstances.
She is an inspiration to all of us for not only turning her life around but also striving for a better future for others.
An extraordinary story and a great book.

Thanks for this excellent review